The official start times for day one of the 2026 World Juniors have been confirmed
The holiday hockey season rolls on as the official schedule for Day One of the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship has officially been released. With four games packed into the opening slate, fans won't have to wait long for meaningful international hockey to return.
For New York Rangers fans, the spotlight will be firmly on Team USA's opening matchup against Germany at 6:00 p.m. ET. That game marks the World Juniors debut of Rangers defensive prospect EJ Emery, who will be suiting up for the United States after earning a spot on the final roster.
It's official now: #NYR prospect EJ Emery will suit up for Team USA at the World Junior Championships, which begin Friday.
Emery's participation adds real intrigue for the Rangers organization. The young defenseman is viewed as an important piece of the team's long-term blue line plans, and the World Juniors offer a valuable measuring stick.
Playing against top talent from around the world, in a fast-paced and pressure-filled environment, often reveals where a prospect truly stands in their development.
World Junior's Schedule: Day one
Day One will begin with Sweden taking on Slovakia at 1:00 p.m. ET. That matchup is followed by Denmark versus Finland at 3:30 p.m. ET. After Team USA faces Germany at 6:00 p.m. ET, the night concludes with a marquee showdown between Czechia and Canada at 8:30 p.m. ET.
Hey! The holiday season continues tomorrow! 🥳
#WorldJuniors 12/26 Schedule:
🇸🇪 v. 🇸🇰 - 1pm ET
🇩🇰 v. 🇫🇮 - 3:30pm ET
🇩🇪 v. 🇺🇸 - 6pm ET
🇨🇿 v. 🇨🇦 - 8:30pm ET
All games on NHLN (🇺🇸) and TSN (🇨🇦)!
#WorldJuniors 12/26 Schedule:
🇸🇪 v. 🇸🇰 - 1pm ET
🇩🇰 v. 🇫🇮 - 3:30pm ET
🇩🇪 v. 🇺🇸 - 6pm ET
🇨🇿 v. 🇨🇦 - 8:30pm ET
All games on NHLN (🇺🇸) and TSN (🇨🇦)!
All four games will be broadcast on NHL Network in the United States and TSN in Canada, giving fans full access to the opening day action.
For Emery, this tournament represents more than just another game. It's a chance to prove he can handle responsibility, read plays quickly, and defend against elite speed and skill. A strong showing could further solidify his standing within the Rangers system.
As the puck drops on Day One, Rangers fans will have extra motivation to tune in. Team USA's opener at 6:00 p.m. isn't just about the standings, it's about watching EJ Emery take a significant step forward on the international stage.
Previously on NY Hockey Insider
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 26 | 35 ANSWERS The official start times for day one of the 2026 World Juniors have been confirmed Will you be watching Team USA at the World Juniors tonight? | ||
| Yes | 18 | 51.4 % |
| Only USA games | 4 | 11.4 % |
| Only Canada games | 2 | 5.7 % |
| No | 11 | 31.4 % |
| List of polls | ||